Over 1 in 4 Brits now use exercise to socialise
- Overview
According to the findings, 1 in 4 (25%)1 people surveyed are now part of a fitness community, such as a run club, CrossFit group, or leisure centre-based programme. This trend appears to be bridging a post-pandemic gap in social interaction – particularly among those working remotely for 7+ hours a week (72%4 of whom say their social wellbeing has improved).
As digital and remote lifestyles continue to dominate, traditional “third spaces” like gyms and group fitness settings are emerging as platforms for face-to-face interactions.
The benefits extend well beyond new friendships. Nearly 1 in 3 (31%) of those who feel as though they’re part of a fitness community say exercise is their main form of socialising3, compared with far fewer among those who are not. A quarter (25%) of those doing moderate or vigorous physical activity say it’s made it easier and healthier to meet new and likeminded people.
Additionally, nearly half (52%) of fitness community members say their social life has improved, and 46% report reduced feelings of loneliness4.
Gurpreet Gujral, Chief Operations Officer, Fitness and Wellbeing at Nuffield Health says:
“We’ve noticed gyms becoming more than just places to be active – they’re evolving into third spaces with real social ecosystems. Whether it’s a running club, group class, or just a gym coffee social, fitness gives people purpose, structure, and a way to connect – especially for those who don’t have that elsewhere.”
The findings clearly prove that it’s not just the act of exercising – it’s the environment that matters. The research shows that working out as part of a community – with shared accountability – helps people feel more connected, consistent, confident, and supported in staying active, while also delivering stronger and more lasting outcomes:
- 556% of respondents say they’re more likely to stick to a fitness routine when it's social.
- 57% say being part of a group improves motivation.
- 54% say it helps them exercise more regularly.
- Among those with children under 18, 75% of parents say they feel more motivated when they exercise in a group setting.
When it comes to those seeing the most benefit from community-driven fitness, young adults and men are leading the shift.
- 25% of men surveyed say exercise is their primary social outlet – compared with 14% of women.
- 38% of 25–34s say exercise helps them meet new people, versus just 15% of those aged 55 and over.
- Over 77% of Millennials say their social wellbeing has improved through community-based exercise6.
Meanwhile, those in “perfect health” are nine times more likely to be proactive members of a fitness community than those who consider themselves unhealthy – highlighting a clear link between social interaction and perceived wellbeing.
As work, leisure and technology habits continue to evolve, this data proves that for many people, fitness has become more than a routine – it’s a way to build meaningful, lasting connections.
1 Question asked ‘What, if anything, is the biggest role exercise plays in helping you make new and maintaining current social connections?’ This stat combines ‘New/easier/healthier opportunities to meet new people/new friends’ and ‘It's my main way of staying socially connected’
2 Refers to only respondents who have done moderate physical activity/Vigorous physical activity
3 Question asked, ‘How connected or disconnected do you feel to the fitness clubs / groups / communities your part of?’ The stat combines ‘Connected’ and ‘Very connected’ answer options.
4 Question asked, ‘To what extent has group exercise and/or being part of a fitness community improved or worsened the following?’ Stat combines ‘Significantly improved’ and ‘Somewhat improved’ answer options.
5 Question asked, ‘How much more or less likely are you / would you be to…? Stat combines ‘Much more likely’ and ‘Somewhat more likely’ answer options.
6 Those who have participated in any fitness clubs (groups) or communities
Last updated Monday 22 September 2025
First published on Monday 22 September 2025